pubic lice

What are pubic lice?

Pubic lice are similar to head lice, but only affect pubic hair, body
hair and rarely, eyebrows and eyelashes. They are not found on the hair
of the head. They are known as crab lice.

What are the symptoms?

You may not have any symptoms or you may feel itchy in the affected areas

How are pubic lice passed on?

They are passed from person to person by close body contact. However
they can survive of the body for 24-48 hours.

How do I know if I have it?

Often you can see the crab lice on the hairs.

Where can I get treatment?

You can treat yourself with a lotion from
the chemist. You do not have to be seen by a doctor. Bed linen and recently
used clothing should be washed. Most treatments need to be applied again 7 days later. Your current sexual partner(s) should also
be treated to prevent recurrence. You may wish to be tested for other STIs.

Will pubic lice come back?

Treatment is successful for most people. You may experience itching afterwards,
but this doesn't necessarily mean the lice have come back. Do not use lotion
more than the recommended amount and frequency. If your current sexual
partners are not treated, it is likely you will be re-infected

Safer Sex

You cannot tell by looking at someone if they have a sexually transmitted
infection, so if you are having sex (oral, anal or vaginal) the only way
to make sure you are not putting yourself at risk is to practise safer
sex. This means:

always using condoms or femidoms (female condom inserted
within the vagina) for vaginal sex.

always using condoms with water based lube for anal sex

always using flavoured condoms or dental dams (a latex shield that covers
the mouth) when having oral sex

trying non-penetrative sex like massage
or mutual masturbation.

Condoms / Femidoms also protect you from other STIs including HIV. Always
check the packaging for the British Standard kitemark or European product
mark as well as the date of expiry.